“Live, Love, Learn, and Leave a Legacy” Farewell Stephen Covey

Dear Dr. Covey

“To live. To love. To learn. To leave a legacy. That’s what we all want.” I remember the first time I heard those words from you and how I immediately felt “yes” that’s it.

Those same words came rushing to my mind when I read the painful news this morning that you passed away last night at the age of 79. Apparently, that nasty bike crash you had back in April wasn’t OK after all and there were unseen complications to the injury you sustained to your head.

As soon as the initial shock of your passing wore off, I was immediately moved to write about you and your ideas. I thought that I would grab one of your many insightful quotes and riff on it a bit with the hope of inspiring some learning for the few that read my articles and posts. But as I sit here considering what to write … what to say that is of significant importance and merits consideration on the occasion of your passing, I am utterly speechless.

For 20+ years you have helped shape my life on both a tactical and strategic level. Your methods, and the philosophies that animate them, are the bedrock of my personal practice. Your ideas and approach are deeply embedded within my own writing and consulting.

What could I possibly say that would adequately sum up my feelings of love, admiration and thanks for all you have given me. What could I possibly say about the importance and value of your contributions to hundreds of millions of people around the world.

Frankly, the answer is—nothing.

And so, in your honor and memory,  all I have to share with the world is my silence and respect.